Ivy Ledbetter Lee

Originator of the explanatory approach to public relations. Worked with a number of companies (such as J.P. Morgan’s International Harvester Company and the Pennsylvania Railroad) before securing his first remarkable career break serving as a publicity counsel to the 'Rockefeller family and their company Standard Oil.' Lee helped the Rockefeller's to build a positive image in the social sphere and reverse the harm caused by the Ludlow Massacre.

He was the one to invent "press release" (to distribute Pennsylvania Railroad’s news about an accident) and is regarded as the originator of modern crisis communication. Lee maintained an open communications with the media - showing them there was nothing to hide.

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